There is nothing quite like the burst of fresh, vibrant flavors that come together in this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe. It’s a colorful medley of tender orecchiette pasta, crisp bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and peppery arugula, all crowned with tangy, crumbly feta and briny Kalamata olives. Tossed in a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing with fresh herbs, this salad is a bright and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to lively family gatherings. Once you try it, this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites for easy, healthy, and truly delicious eating.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each item plays a key role in delivering gorgeous color, wonderful textures, and that unmistakable fresh Mediterranean flavor that elevates the dish.
- Orecchiette pasta: Its small, ear-shaped form is perfect for holding onto the dressing and ingredients.
- Tomatoes: Adds juicy sweetness and vibrant red color.
- Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers: These provide a crisp crunch and beautiful multicolored appeal.
- Baby arugula: Contributes a peppery, fresh green bite.
- Feta cheese: Adds tangy creaminess and savory depth.
- Kalamata olives: Bring a salty, briny pop that balances the salad.
- Fresh basil and mint: Herbal freshness that brightens every forkful.
- Olive oil and lemon juice: Combine for a simple, zesty dressing that ties all flavors together.
- Sea salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning enhances all the components.
How to Make Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta in plenty of very salty water, just as the package directs. This step is crucial because the salty water seasons the pasta from within, giving it flavor that shines through in the final salad. Once the pasta is perfectly al dente, drain it and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
While the pasta cooks, prepare your vibrant veggie mix. In a large bowl, toss together the diced tomatoes, the colorful trio of diced bell peppers, fresh baby arugula, crumbly feta cheese, sliced Kalamata olives, and the freshly chopped basil and mint. This combination bursts with contrasting textures and fresh Mediterranean character that makes this salad irresistible.
Step 3: Dress and Toss the Salad
Whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, sea salt, and ground black pepper in a small bowl to create a bright and zesty dressing. Drizzle it over the pasta and vegetable mixture, then gently toss everything until each bite is coated with that gorgeous, light dressing. The balance of acidity and richness here is what makes this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe truly sing.
How to Serve Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, sprinkle a little extra feta cheese and some whole fresh basil leaves on top before serving. You could also add a few whole olives or a few grinds of black pepper for a rustic finishing touch that looks as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish to make a complete meal, or alongside a basket of warm crusty bread for a satisfying vegetarian option. For gatherings, serve it as part of a mezze spread alongside hummus, roasted red peppers, and pita chips for a true taste of the Mediterranean coast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out bell peppers or mini pita pockets to make grab-and-go Mediterranean delights. Alternatively, layering the salad in a clear glass trifle bowl can show off its vibrant colors beautifully, making it the centerpiece of your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually mellow and mingle even more by day two, making the salad taste even better as leftovers.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well because the fresh vegetables and cheese can become watery or lose texture once thawed. To preserve flavor, make the salad fresh or store leftovers refrigerated only.
Reheating
This dish is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer it slightly warmer, bring it to room temperature by letting it sit out for 20 minutes rather than microwaving, which could wilt the fresh ingredients.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is ideal for catching the dressing and ingredients, other chunky pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or farfalle work just as well and will still deliver plenty of texture.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
You can easily make this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe vegan by omitting the feta cheese or substituting it with a plant-based alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.
How long does this salad stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the salad stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent options that complement the Mediterranean flavors perfectly and make the salad more filling.
What herbs work best in the Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe?
Basil and mint are the stars here, lending fresh brightness and a hint of sweetness. You can also experiment with parsley or oregano if you want to explore slightly different Mediterranean notes.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe is a true celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It’s easy to prepare, bursting with flavor and color, and wonderfully versatile—ideal for lazy weeknights or special occasions alike. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a regular part of your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every bite and share the joy with friends and family!
Print
Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and refreshing Mediterranean Pasta Salad featuring orecchiette pasta, colorful bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and briny kalamata olives, tossed in a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound orecchiette pasta (or other chunky pasta shapes)
Vegetables & Greens
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 orange bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups baby arugula
Cheese & Olives
- 6 ounces crumbly feta cheese
- 1 cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced
Herbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, seasoned generously with salt. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside to cool slightly.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the diced tomatoes, red, yellow, and orange bell peppers, baby arugula, crumbled feta cheese, sliced kalamata olives, chopped fresh basil, and chopped fresh mint. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and gently mix everything until well combined.
- Prepare and add dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, sea salt, and ground black pepper until the dressing is emulsified. Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the flavorful dressing.
Notes
- Use chunky pasta shapes like orecchiette, penne, or rigatoni for best texture and to hold the dressing well.
- Make sure to salt the pasta water generously to season the pasta itself.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator; flavors meld beautifully when chilled.
- Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch and nuttiness if desired.
